Change Feed?

[millerchix]

My hens are about 20 weeks old now and still on starter feed. I was told by my feed store to keep them on that until they start laying, but the food bag says only until 18 weeks. Should I change to layer feed? If so what should I get? Pellets or Crumbles? Grit also? Oyster shell also? Mix in Scratch?
Please advise as my starter feed is running out soon.

 

[Yay Chicks!]

You could start them on layer now. I feed mine pellets because there seems to be less dust and waste. I throw grit on the floor of the run. I offer oyster shell on the side - they will take it as they need it. Scratch you could throw on the ground every once in a while if you like, although it is not totally necessary. I give mine a handful of black oil sunflower seeds (BOSS).

Other people do different things, but this is what works for me.

 

[millerchix]

Do you know if I need to mix some of the starter food in with the new stuff?

 

[Fred's Hens]

You do not need to mix. Yes, your birds are now old enough for layer, whether or not they've actually begun. They will soon, no doubt.

 

[yo burrill]

Just make sure they are actually eating it if you dont mix them. I had a batch of chicks that refused to eat them.